Evolution / Genetics / Biology

Spectacular wall frescoes discovered at Pompeii

Archaeologists working at Pompeii continue to uncover incredible finds, 270 years since the remains of the ancient city were first discovered.

Credit: Sergio Siano/Archaeological site of Pompeii

The latest discovery is a newly unearthed house with brightly coloured animal frescoes, revealed at the site earlier this week.

Credit: Sergio Siano/Archaeological site of Pompeii

The residence, which probably belonged to a member of Pompeii's upper class, has been named the House of Dolphins.

Credit: Sergio Siano/Archaeological site of Pompeii

As well as the marine mammals that give the site its name, the house's frescoes also show several fish and birds, including a peacock, a partridge, and a parrot. Deer and mythical creatures are also depicted.

Credit: Sergio Siano/Archaeological site of Pompeii

Excavations are currently underway in Regio V, a northeastern area of the archaeological park which had not been excavated since the immediate postwar period with some spots completely untouched.

Credit: Sergio Siano/Archaeological site of Pompeii

The House of Dolphins was uncovered just a few days after an alleyway of grand houses with mostly intact balconies was found nearby.

Credit: Sergio Siano/Archaeological site of Pompeii

Many of the frescoes revealed on Tuesday were painted in characteristic 'Pompeii red', though in some cases experts believe this colour was created when gases from Vesuvius reacted with originally yellow paint.